What Business Leaders Can Learn From Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss wrote some of the most beloved children’s books to date. We are still reading his work to our children over fifty years later, and probably still will many more years to come. His books delight the young and old with their creativity and whimsical fantasies. He is certainly the epitome of a successful children’s book author. And there are lessons in his life and work that can be adapted and applied everywhere. If you’re a business leader, you can certainly take some inspiration from such a successful man like Dr. Seuss. Here are some things he can teach you.

Be Humble

Dr. Seuss’s real name was Theodor Seuss Geisel, but he always used a penname. Dr. Seuss was humble enough to not need the direct recognition that would come from having his real name on the cover of his books. Many people don’t know who the real Dr. Seuss even is. As a business leader, it is off-putting to desire a great deal of praise. Be humble with your success.

Simple Works

Dr. Seuss’s most successful book, “The Cat in the Hat,” uses only 236 different words. It is a simple story with uncomplicated language, and it works extremely well. The popularity of it speaks for itself, that you don’t always need to make things very complicated or involved. People love simple.

Have an Imagination

One thing Dr. Seuss surely had was an imagination. He dreamt up all kinds of unique creatures doing silly things, and his books stimulate the creativity of all children. In your work, try to use your imagination as much as possible. Don’t be satisfied with the ordinary.

Be Vivid

The illustrations in Dr. Seuss’ books were colorful and fun. They brought his stories to life. As a business leader you should always be looking for ways to make your business vibrant and lively so that it will have great appeal and charm.

Have a Cause

Much of Dr. Seuss’ work was politically driven. He spent time making posters during WWII and supporting the war effort. He drew political cartoons. It was his passion and dedication to various causes that drove his work. “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is an anti-authoritarian work, but it delights thousands of children every year around the holidays. If you have a cause driving your business, you will be more likely to succeed.

Stick to What You Do Best

Dr. Seuss is best known for being a children’s author. It was all those kids’ books that gave him the most success. He was also a competent writer in other respects and a cartoonist, but it was always his written word and drawings that carried him through. When Dr. Seuss tried to enter another medium, film, it was a failure. Stick to what your business does best and build upon that. Don’t try to spread yourself too thin or dabble in things you aren’t really experienced with.

Balance Your Personal Life

Dr. Seuss was a married man with no children. But he had an affair, and his wife committed suicide. Make sure you don’t put all your time into your business. Take care of your personal life just as well.

Inspire Others

Numerous works have been inspired by Dr. Seuss’ books, from cartoons to feature films to Broadway musicals. As a business leader, if you can inspire others, you will create a long-lasting legacy.